Parkinson’s Disease Treatment: 5 Steps To Reduce Symptoms

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects the natural movements of the body. In patients who have Parkinson’s, the area of the brain that controls muscular movements receives less dopamine than normal, causing symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tremors and difficulty walking. (1) Parkinson’s disease treatment focuses on eating a healthy ant-inflammatory diet, using helpful supplements and performing exercises to keep the muscles and joints flexible.

Parkinson’s Disease Risk Factors

Being a man, especially during older age

Having Parkinson’s run in the family

Damage to the area of the brain that produces brain cells responsible for making dopamine

Toxicity and exposure to chemicals, including pesticides present on produce

3. Use Helpful Supplements

Parkinson’s disease supplements include:

Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that can be used as a Parkinson’s disease treatment to help slow the progression of the disease. Studies have shown that Parkinson’s patient have very low levels of CoQ10, which plays a key role in preventing damage from free radicals. Take 1,200 milligrams per day as a Parkinson’s disease treatment. (4)

Vitamin C: Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and acts as a powerful antioxidant to prevent free radical damage. Take 750 milligrams 4 times per day.

Vitamin E: Vitamin E plays a key role in brain health. Take 400 IU daily as a supplement for Parkinson’s disease.
Green vegetable powder supplement: Include spirulina, chlorella and wheatgrass to help with detoxification.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an essential role in maintaining bone health. Spend time outdoors or supplement with 800 IU of Vitamin D each day. (5)

Essential oils: Essential oils for Parkinson’s disease include helichrysum and frankincense oil, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, and vetiver oil, which can help reduce tremors. Rub 2 drops of each oil onto the temples and neck twice a day.

4. Exercise

Studies have shown that exercise is a key part of Parkinson’s treatment. Parkinson’s disease affects the way people are able to move, but studies show that most patients can still participate in many forms of exercise that can help significantly reduce the later risk of dementia and other cognitive impairments. (6) Exercises for Parkinson’s disease include:

Stretch to Prevent Stiff Muscles

Stand 8 inches away from a wall and reach your arms upward. Place your hands on the wall for balance and stretch out your arms and back.

Next, turn around and place your back against the wall for balance. Gently march in place and lift your knees as high as possible.

While sitting in a chair, reach your arms behind the chair and bring your shoulder back as far as possible. Lift your head toward the ceiling as you stretch.

From the chair, stomp your feet up and down while pumping your arms back and forth at your sides.

Move With Caution

Try not to move too quickly and consider using a supportive device when needed.

According to a study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, older adults who participated in water sports showed significant increases in leg strength, better recovery of balance after falls and lowered risk of future injuries from falling. Use the shallow end of the pool and bring a friend along to help with trouble balancing, muscle loss and stiffness. (7)

5. Try Acupuncture

Research has shown that acupuncture can help relieve Parkinson’s symptoms by stimulating a neural response in areas of the brain that are affected by inflammation. Patients have been using acupuncture for centuries to help with pain, anxiety, muscle stiffness and insomnia. Studies suggest acupuncture may even help slow cell death. (8)

Lindsey Shaffer is a writer and editor for DavidWolfe.com and holds a B.A. in Professional Writing and Editing. She is a health and fitness enthusiast and a world traveler with a love of coffee and a passion for adventure.